The highly anticipated college football national championship, set to take place on Monday night, will see the Notre Dame Fighting Irish face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes. This match marks the conclusion of the inaugural expanded College Football Playoff. Both teams have fought hard to reach this pinnacle, and despite their competitive spirit, players from both sides share a common bond: their unwavering faith. As they prepare for the intense battle at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, athletes like Riley Leonard, Will Howard, TreVeyon Henderson, and Emeka Egbuka have openly discussed how their religious beliefs have shaped their journeys.
Both the Fighting Irish and the Buckeyes entered the playoff without being favored, making their path to the championship all the more remarkable. Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard expressed his belief that divine intervention has guided both teams to this point. “I truly think things happen for a reason,” he said, reflecting on the season. “Not only us, but Ohio State as well. I believe there’s a higher purpose behind our presence here.”
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard also attributed his success to his faith. Following an upset victory over Oregon in the Rose Bowl, Howard thanked God for providing him with the opportunity to compete at such a high level. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the role of faith in achieving milestones.
Emeka Egbuka, a standout wide receiver for Ohio State, shared how his faith has transformed his life. Invited by teammates to attend Mass, Egbuka found a deeper connection to his spirituality. He decided to postpone joining the NFL Draft, feeling called to something greater than just football. “My life has taken a complete 180-degree turn,” he said. “We’ve been praying for a revival on our team, and we’re excited to share what God has been doing.”
TreVeyon Henderson, a running back for Ohio State, credited his faith for saving him from potential pitfalls. After facing injuries, he turned to his beliefs for strength. “Jesus rescued me from a destructive path and put me on His path of everlasting life,” Henderson remarked. This testimony resonates with many players who have found solace and direction through their faith.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman reinstated pregame Mass when he took over in 2021, emphasizing the importance of faith in the team's culture. “It’s about having a belief in something bigger than yourself,” Freeman explained. The university’s support for spiritual growth has played a significant role in fostering a strong sense of community among the players.
As the two teams prepare for the final showdown, they will come together in prayer before the game begins. The unity forged through their shared faith promises to add another layer of significance to this historic matchup. The championship game will not only test athletic prowess but also highlight the power of belief in shaping the destinies of these young athletes.